When most people think of workplace injuries, they picture something sudden and catastrophic, like a fall from a ladder, a machinery accident, or a heavy object falling on a worker. But not all on-the-job injuries happen in an instant. Some develop over time, caused by small, repeated motions that gradually wear down the body.
These conditions are repetitive stress injuries (RSIs), which are also known as overuse injuries or cumulative trauma disorders. If you’re experiencing pain, tingling, or weakness from doing the same motions at work every day, you may have an RSI, and in Ohio, you could be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
Filing a Workers’ Compensation Claim for a Repetitive Stress Injury in Ohio
If you believe your repetitive stress injury is caused by your job, it is important to take action as soon as possible. In Ohio, workers have one year from the date they became aware of their injury to seek workers’ compensation for a repetitive injury. However, waiting too long to report the injury can make it harder to prove that your medical condition is work-related. The sooner you begin the process, the better your chances of securing workers’ comp benefits.
Here’s what you need to do to file a workers’ comp claim for an RSI in Ohio:
- Seek Medical Treatment: The first thing you should do is get a medical evaluation, even if it’s from your primary care physician. The doctor will evaluate your condition, determine if your RSI is related to your job, and recommend treatment.
- File a Workers’ Compensation Claim: The next step is to file a formal workers’ compensation claim. Though this can be done by you, your employer, your treating physician, an authorized representative (e.g., your attorney), or another designee such as a medical provider or managed care organization, legal representation from the outset is strongly recommended to secure all entitled benefits. A Plevin & Gallucci workers’ compensation attorney can file your claim with the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation (BWC) or your employer if they’re self-insured. After submitting your claim, the BWC or your self-insured employer will investigate and make a decision. If your claim is approved, you may be eligible to receive:
- Medical coverage for doctor visits, therapy, medications, and any necessary procedures like physical therapy;
- Weekly wage replacement if your RSI prevents you from working temporarily;
- Rehabilitation benefits to help you recover and return to work.
If your claim is denied, don’t lose hope. You have the right to appeal the decision and provide additional evidence, such as medical records, witness statements, or expert opinions. A workers’ compensation attorney can help you fight for the benefits you deserve.
Challenges in Getting Workers’ Compensation for a Repetitive Injury
While repetitive strain injuries are covered under Ohio workers’ compensation, getting a claim approved can be more challenging than for injuries caused by a single accident. Since RSIs develop gradually rather than from a specific event, proving that your daily duties caused the condition requires strong medical evidence and careful documentation.
Employers and the Ohio Bureau of Workers’ Compensation often challenge or deny RSI claims by arguing the following:
- The Injury was Caused by Something Outside of Work: One of the most common reasons RSI claims are denied is the argument that the condition wasn’t caused by work duties. Employers or the BWC may claim that your symptoms are the result of a pre-existing condition or lifestyle factors.
- The Injury isn’t Severe Enough to Warrant Compensation: Even if an RSI is work-related, OBWC may argue that it is not serious enough to qualify for workers’ compensation benefits. They might claim that your condition is mild or temporary, and does not require time off, wage loss benefits, or work restrictions.
- The Injury wasn’t reported in Time: Unlike sudden accidents, RSIs don’t happen on a single day, making it harder to determine the exact date of injury. The BWC may try to deny a claim by arguing that you waited too long to report the injury to your employer or that there is no clear link between your job duties and your condition.
Since RSI claims can be complicated and often disputed, getting legal guidance may increase your chances of success, especially if your employer or the BWC is pushing back.
Hiring a Workers’ Compensation Lawyer Can Help You
Obtaining workers’ compensation for a repetitive injury in Ohio can be difficult, especially when employers or the BWC challenge your case. Since RSIs develop gradually rather than from a single accident, proving that your injury is work-related often requires strong medical care evidence and a well-prepared claim.
An experienced workers’ compensation lawyer can improve your chances of receiving the benefits you need by:
- Proving that Your RSI Is Work-Related: A workers’ compensation lawyer can gather the right medical evidence and work with specialists to prove that your injury resulted from your job tasks and not personal activities. This may involve obtaining detailed medical reports from BWC-certified doctors and collecting witness statements from coworkers who can confirm your work-related activities.
- Making Sure You Meet Deadlines and Follow the Proper Process: Many claims are denied due to missed deadlines, incomplete paperwork, or procedural errors. An experienced lawyer can ensure that your claim is filed correctly and you follow the correct steps when reporting your injury and seeing a doctor for treatment.
- Fighting a Denied or Disputed Claim: If your claim is denied, a workers’ compensation attorney can review the reason for the denial and gather additional evidence to make your case stronger. If necessary, they can file an appeal with the Ohio Industrial Commission and represent you in hearings to argue for your right to benefits.
- Maximizing Your Benefits: Even if your RSI claim is approved, the compensation you receive may not fully cover your medical expenses, lost wages, or rehabilitation costs. By negotiating with the BWC, a Plevin & Gallucci workers’ compensation lawyer ensures you get the full amount of benefits you are entitled to.
If you’re facing difficulties with your RSI claim, don’t try to handle it alone. Getting a workers’ compensation attorney on your side from the start can increase your chances of approval and protect your financial future while you seek treatment.
Common Repetitive Stress Injuries
Unlike sudden injuries caused by a single accident, repetitive strain injuries develop gradually as small, repeated motions place ongoing stress on the body. Over time, this strain can lead to pain, inflammation, and loss of function.
These work-related injuries are common in jobs that involve repetitive motions, forceful exertion, prolonged poor postures, or continuous vibration. Without proper treatment or modifications to work-related activities, RSIs can become severe and result in chronic pain, reduced mobility, or even permanent disability.
Some of the most frequently diagnosed RSIs include:
- Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: This type of injury occurs when the median nerve, which runs from the forearm into the palm, becomes compressed at the wrist. Repetitive hand movements, such as typing, operating machinery, or performing assembly line tasks, can contribute to swelling in the wrist, putting pressure on the nerve.
- Tendonitis: Tendonitis develops when tendons, the thick cords that connect muscles to bones, become inflamed due to repetitive movements or overuse. This condition is commonly seen in injured workers who frequently lift, reach, grip, or twist their joints.
- Bursitis: Bursitis occurs when the bursae, the small fluid-filled sacs that cushion joints, become inflamed from repetitive motion or excessive pressure. Workers who kneel frequently, lift heavy objects, or use their arms repeatedly throughout the day are at higher risk.
- Trigger Finger: This condition causes one or more fingers to lock in a bent position due to inflammation in the tendons controlling finger movement. Repetitive gripping or forceful hand movements can lead to stiffness, pain, and difficulty straightening the finger without assistance.
- Rotator Cuff Injuries: The rotator cuff is a group of muscles and tendons in the shoulder that help lift and rotate the arm. Repetitive overhead motions, such as painting, stocking shelves, or using heavy tools, can cause strain or small tears in the rotator cuff, leading to pain, weakness, and restricted movement.
- Epicondylitis (Tennis Elbow or Golfer’s Elbow): This condition results from inflammation in the tendons that attach to the elbow. Workers who frequently grip tools, lift heavy objects, or perform repetitive arm motions may experience pain, tenderness, and weakness in the forearm and hand.
If left untreated, RSIs can lead to chronic pain, reduced mobility, and even long-term disability. Recognizing the symptoms early and seeking medical attention can help prevent permanent damage and improve recovery outcomes.
Who is at Risk for Repetitive Stress Injuries?
Repetitive stress injuries affect workers across many industries. If a job requires frequent hand movements, frequent lifting, awkward postures, or vibration exposure, there is an increased chance of developing an RSI.
- Office Workers and Administrative Professionals: Employees who spend long hours at a computer are particularly vulnerable to RSIs. Constant typing, clicking, and touchscreen use can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, tendonitis, and chronic hand or wrist pain.
- Healthcare Workers: The physically demanding nature of healthcare jobs makes RSIs common among nurses, aides and therapists. Lifting and turning patients and administering treatments that require fine motor skills (such as inserting IVs or using medical instruments) can strain the hands and wrists over time and affect the range of motion.
- Warehouse, Manufacturing, and Assembly Line Workers: Employees who work in warehouses or on assembly lines are at high risk for RSIs due to repetitive lifting, carrying, and pushing of heavy loads. Workers who perform the same hand or arm motions throughout their shifts often develop tendonitis, bursitis, and nerve compression injuries.
- Construction and Skilled Trade Workers: Plumbers, electricians, carpenters, and mechanics frequently handle heavy tools and perform work-related tasks that put stress on their muscles and joints. Repeated hammering, drilling, and gripping of power tools can lead to carpal tunnel syndrome, trigger finger, and chronic hand pain.
- Retail Employees: Cashiers often develop wrist and hand injuries due to continuous use of barcode scanners and cash registers. Stock clerks, who frequently lift and carry heavy products, are prone to back strain, shoulder injuries, and tendonitis in the arms.
- Transportation Workers: Long hours gripping a steering wheel and operating pedals can cause wrist, elbow, and shoulder strain for truck drivers and bus operators. The vibrations from heavy-duty vehicles also contribute to lower back pain, nerve damage, and other occupational injuries.
- Hospitality and Food Service Workers: Chefs, servers, and housekeepers are constantly using their hands, wrists, and arms in repetitive ways and for extended periods. Chefs and kitchen staff frequently develop carpal tunnel syndrome and tendonitis from chopping, stirring, and gripping kitchen tools.
While some jobs pose a greater risk for RSIs than others, anyone who performs repetitive movements, forceful tasks, or prolonged activities without proper breaks or ergonomic support can develop an RSI. Small, seemingly harmless tasks, such as clicking a mouse, twisting a screwdriver, or gripping a steering wheel, can lead to chronic pain and reduced mobility over time.
Get a Free Consultation from an Ohio Workers’ Compensation Attorney
If you’ve developed an RSI from your job, don’t let the system intimidate you: Ohio’s workers’ compensation laws exist to protect employees like you. However, proving an RSI claim can be tricky, and employers and the BWC may push back.
If you’ve been injured at work, it’s crucial to consult with an experienced workers’ compensation attorney. A lawyer at Plevin & Gallucci can help gather evidence, negotiate with the BWC, and fight for your rights. For more information, call 855-4PLEVIN, or fill out our contact form to have a team member contact you. We look forward to hearing from you.
